Puppies

Children's Literature

This book about choosing and caring for a new puppy joins others in Crabtree's "Pet Care" series, which features guinea pigs, gerbils, kittens, hamsters, and mice. Well organized into topics such as favorite breeds, bringing the puppy home for the first time, and visiting the veterinarian, this book has plenty of white space to help make it accessible for younger children. Difficult words are presented in bold letters and explained in the text. There is also a short index and a "words to know" list at the end of the book. The color photographs show children learning basic responsible puppy ownership skills as well as equipment needed to accomplish these tasks. A straightforward training manual with enough kid appeal to attract young readers, the book does not attempt to glamorize puppy ownership with page after page of cute cuddly puppies. Although the information presented is not new, if your home or library needs another dog book, this one will be helpful to youngsters trying to take responsibility for their first puppy. 2004, Crabtree Publishing Company, and Ages 6 to 12.
—Augusta Scattergood